The richly woven and embroidered textiles explored in this book belong to the Miao minority group of Guizhou province in south-west China. The Miao's elaborate festival costumes are not only their most important possessions, but can be considered the major living visual art form of their culture. Over 20 such textiles from the British Museum's collection are examined and illustrated here in detail and will undoubtedly provide designers at all levels with inspiration for new and unexpected ways for using colour and pattern in their own work. In her introduction Gina Corrigan provides the background information to bring the pieces to life. She looks at the origins of the Miao, their distinctive textiles and costumes, when and how they are worn, the materials and dyes used, the principal weaving techniques employed, and the decorative techniques, patterning and stitches that distinguish one group from another. Where appropriate brief commentaries highlight the design features and detailed captions throughout provide the textile student with relevant technical information. In addition all techniques and terms are fully explained in the glossary. Whether you want to rely on the book for eye-catching patterns or refer to it for specific technical information there is a wealth of inspiration for readers of all levels.